Lahore Qalandars, Islamabad United opening clash kick starts PSL-9

 Lahore Qalandars, Islamabad United opening clash kick starts PSL-9

Asher Butt

 The much-anticipated 9th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) is set to kick off today (Saturday) with a clash between defending champions Lahore Qalandars and Islamabad United at Lahore's iconic Gaddafi Stadium. The stage is set for an exhilarating battle between Shaheen Afridi's Qalandars and Shadab Khan's Islamabad United.

The encounter promises to be a spectacle, as both teams bring their unique strengths and strategies to the field. Lahore Qalandars, known for their powerful batting lineup, will go head-to-head with Islamabad United, boasting a formidable bowling attack. The clash is expected to be a nail-biter, with the outcome hanging in the balance.

Both the teams feature in the opening match are the two times champions. The first ball of the match is expected to be bowled at 8pm PKT. In the double-header, the afternoon match will begin at 2pm, while the first ball of the evening match will be bowled at 7pm. The matches taking place during Ramadan will begin at 9pm.

In the past, both teams have displayed resilience and determination, making this match a true test for them to prove their mettle. Fans can anticipate a roller-coaster of emotions, with the potential for dramatic moments and suspenseful twists throughout the game.

Notably, Islamabad United will be without Tom Curran, sidelined due to a knee injury sustained in Australia, jeopardizing his PSL participation. Fast bowler Naseem Shah's fitness remains uncertain as he continues to recover from a shoulder injury since the Asia Cup last year.

On the Lahore Qalandars' side, leg-spinner Rashid Khan's absence is a significant setback, as he continues rehabilitation from a recent back surgery. Additionally, England all-rounder Dan Lawrence is only partially available due to his commitments with the England Test squad in India.

The history between Lahore Qalandars and Islamabad United has been marked by tough competition and great cricketing moments. Qalandars, representing the cultural heartland of Pakistan, showcase resilience and style, bouncing back stronger after facing challenges in previous seasons.

Despite the ups and downs, Lahore Qalandars consistently strive for the championship title, led by experienced players and complemented by emerging talents. Islamabad United, representing the capital city, is synonymous with smart strategies and consistency. With numerous wins and a loyal fan base, they bring both experience and youthful energy to the field.

If viewed head to head, Lahore and Islamabad have played 17 matches with Islamabad have an edge of nine wins over Qalandars who has eight victories. Lahore came up with 226 runs as their highest score while Islamabad has 238 as its maximum against each other. Lahore's lowest was 121 as compared to 90 of Islamabad. So if Islamabad has slightly better in win proportion, Lahore has kept them contained to quite a low score. And today’s match performance will ascertain which team is better balanced and as to how they use their resources in the field.

Lahore Qalandars and Islamabad United in the matches played at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore stands at 2-2 and the two franchises have evenly split their four meetings on this ground.

All PSL venues are known for their batting-friendly surfaces, particularly at the start of the season, featuring flat pitches and small boundary sizes. The Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore favors chasing, and last season witnessed six innings scores of 190 or more.

As the match unfolds, fans can expect thrilling moments and closely contested battles. Lahore Qalandars aim to assert their dominance, showcasing the prowess of their experienced players and the potential of emerging talents. Meanwhile, Islamabad United remains resolute in their pursuit of victory, ready to face any challenge with a combination of seasoned players and promising newcomers, determined to uphold their winning tradition.

Teams from:

Lahore Qalandars: Shaheen Shah Afridi (captain), Abdullah Shafique, Ahsan Hafeez Bhatti, Dan Lawrence, David Wiese, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Kamran Ghulam, Lorcan Tucker, Mirza Tahir Baig, Mohammad Imran Jnr, Rassie van der Dussen, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Fayyaz, Shai Hope, Sikandar Raza and Zaman Khan

Emerging: Jahandad Khan, Syed Faridoun Mahmood and Tayyab Abbas

Islamabad United: Shadab Khan (captain), Alex Hales, Azam Khan, Colin Munro, Faheem Ashraf, Haider Ali, Imad Wasim, Jordan Cox, Matthew Forde, Mohammad Waseem, Naseem Shah, Obed McCoy, Qasim Akram, Rumman Raees, Salman Ali Agha, Shahab Khan and Tymal Mills